European Union fuel prices hit record highs as refining costs and Middle East conflict drive up costs

On 14 September 2026, petrol and diesel prices in the European Union reached record highs, with petrol averaging €2.063 per litre and diesel €2.159 per litre, according to the European Commission. The surge is driven by the Middle East conflict, which began in February, disrupting oil supplies through the Strait of Hormuz, and by rising refining costs. France saw diesel prices hit €2.41 per litre, among the highest in the EU. The European Central Bank warns that diesel margins may peak in October, keeping prices high.